THE unspoiled beauty of nature and man’s creative imagination make Annie Chen’s beach getaway, Bunzies Cove, the perfect place for unwinding from the stress of modern man’s workaday world. Chen made her beach house in the ‘80s on top of a tiny cove that has been used for generations by local fishermen as their access to the sea. From its wide windows, one has a spectacular view of the sea and sky in their myriad moods throughout the day and night.
There’s also beauty within: paintings adorn the walls and sculptured pieces, antiques and art furniture are part of the living room and bedroom décor. This house has served as residence “for artists, writers, researchers and other creative people.”
Recently, Chen opened Bunzies Cove to the public. It has a swimming pool with a grand vista of the sea and sky, and a lookout point from where guests can relax or try to catch sight of the sea creatures which may be passing by: fishes and occasionally, pawikan (sea turtles). There are also a couple of huts which blend with the scenery. All the rooms, beautifully furnished, are equipped with toilet and bath, and a kitchenette.
Chen has left most of the landscape “untouched, as to express the raw beauty of the limestone shoreline” Bunzies Cove sits on. With her permission, the almost hidden cove is still used by the local fishermen for access to the sea. And if a guest is lucky, he might be able to buy fish from the fishermen—a catch so fresh, it is not available in any market.
Bunzies Cove is also a “technology-free zone.” Management encourages guests to disconnect themselves from the use of smartphones “for a few hours, at least” while in its premises. The idea is for a guest to enjoy the scenery and the amenities of the place, as well as the company he is with, whether with a soulmate or with a group of friends.
Bunzies Cove is located in Tabogon, a town some 80 kilometers north of Cebu City.
“It is very local and not ‘touristy,’” said Chen. Truly, Bunzies Cove is a perfect place to unwind, relax, take in the scenery, truly connect with the company one is with, and enjoy the sunshine and the fresh air.